1999/09 LEM Working Paper Series

The structure of problem-solving knowledge and the structure of organisations
 
Marengo L., G.Dosi, P. Legrenzi and C. Pasquali
 
  Abstract
 
This work presents a model of organisational problem solving able to account for the relationships between problem complexity, tasks decentralilzation and problem solving efficiency. Whenever problem solving requires the coordination of a multiplicity of interdependent elements, the varying degrees of decentralization of cognitive and operational tasks shape the solution which can be generated, tested and selected. Suboptimality and path-dependence are shown to be ubiquitous features of organisational problem solving. At the same time, the model allows a precise exploration of the possible trade-offs between decompostion patterns and search efficiency involved in different organisational architectures.


  Remarks
 
Appearing also in the DYNACOM SPECIAL SERIES


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